The future looks bright for the minivan

There are certainly a lot of crossovers on the market these days, also SUV's. But, you don't hear a lot about minivans anymore. The minivan can get a bad rap, some call it the soccer mom mobile or the grocery getter. Well, we found out from Fiat Chrysler that they have really come of age since they were first introduced 30 years ago. And, they are about to get a brand new makeover.

When you think of minivans, you probably think of Chrysler. Come next year, the CEO of Fiat Chrysler says you can expect something brand new. They are already planning the redesign. Jill Catic is the head of minivans for Chrysler Brand and told us at the Detroit Auto Show that while there will be some big changes, the favorite features will stay the same. Catic said, "We have so many great features on the minivan but the stow and go seating is something that no one has been able to replicate, and it's fabulous."

Catic and her team have been talking to drivers, asking what they would like to see in a new version. What would get them to sign and drive? What they've told her, "In all vehicles we hear that people want intuitive electronic systems and radios, so those are the features of the future."

The Town and Country already has multiple hdmi ports, electrical outlets and usb ports. But, it lacks some of the luxury features of the new crossovers and SUV's. With the redesign, Chrysler hopes to get the minivan back on top. Because let's face it, if you have kids, they do have advantages

"The minivan has the sliding door. The sliding door and the storage," Catic said. "I have 3 children, there's nothing like a minivan to park in a tight spot. I have no fear that they are going to damage my vehicle or the vehicle next to us because of that big heavy door they have to swing out or they can't even reach it to get it back in."

Chrysler invented the minivan back in 1983. When it came out, many other automakers followed suit. So when they relaunch the Town and Country, many wonder if that will that happen again? Chrysler announced last month they're putting 200 million dollars into this redesign. That includes some upgrades to the plant where the minivans are made. Auto experts think that they will reveal the new model at the Detroit auto show in 2016.